How to choose an action camera for your holidays?

The widely developed and popularised action camera is an essential device that allows you to film yourself in the midst of action. These devices, known as “sports cameras” or “on-board cameras”, were first adopted by extreme sports enthusiasts, but can now be used in many contexts.

Holidays in particular are the perfect time to take your action camera with you. The camera can be used to film your various leisure activities and document your stay, whether you choose to keep the footage for yourself or upload it directly to social network communities.

In fact, AgfaPhoto has developed a range of action cameras. We wanted to address all styles of use by designing cameras dedicated to both extreme athletes and families wishing to film their adventures, such as canoeing sessions and so on. 

To help you choose the model best suited to your holiday, let's go over the various key features offered by an action camera, and expand upon the different models you can choose from, depending on your activities.

Action cameras: ideal for documenting holidays

The action cam is a camera that was originally designed for the sports world. It was initially used by extreme sports enthusiasts who wanted to share, document and keep a record of their exploits. Little by little, the action camera began appealing to a different target audience; not necessarily sports enthusiasts but those who wanted to record their leisure activities or their stays on the other side of the world. Technology has improved as the action camera has developed: therefore, perfectly robust models are now available which offer a high-quality image and a stability that makes them suitable for the most action-packed, extreme situations.

There are several essential features that you should take into account when choosing your action camera. These include:

·         Image stabiliser

·         Battery life and power mode

·         Connectivity

·         Viewing angle

·         Photo and video resolution

Image stabilisation

Should you plan on filming yourself in a canoe or in the middle of a cross bike descent, it is key to find a camera that holds up. Test it with a standard camera (the one on your smartphone for example), and you will see that the image will not be sharp at all! Of course, action cameras boast an integrated electronic stabiliser that keeps your images fluid, even in the event of strong jolts and vibrations: you can therefore film a bike ride, surfing session or ski descent. No longer risk damaging your smartphone and obtaining difficult-to-watch images, as the action camera is ideal for all your holiday activities.

Battery life and power mode

Whenever you vacation on the other side of the world and want to document your activities in the great outdoors, it's best to have an easy-to-charge camera with a good battery life. Take this element into consideration when choosing your sports camera: if you are planning to go off the grid for a couple of days, away from any charging points, then maximum battery life is key. Similarly, if your holiday is fast-paced and you don't want to miss a single thing, pay attention to the charging time of your on-board camera. Some models in our product range come with two batteries, in addition to the option to charge the camera via a standard USB cable.

The viewing angle

The viewing angle is your camera’s field of vision: when it comes to action cameras, this is an important aspect as it will ensure that all the action is being filmed. The wide-angle lens is ideal for not only focusing the camera on the action, but also seeing the landscape change in the background. A wide-angle action camera allows you to capture an entire sequence with a perfect perspective effect to obtain spectacular images.

Naturally, there are several types of viewing angles. A model like the Realimove AC9500 offers a 170° viewing angle, whilst the Realimove AC500 boasts a 110° angle. Choose this criterion according to the type of scenes you want to film during your holiday and the stunning effect you are hoping to achieve. A 170° wide-angle lens, for example, is ideal for capturing a mountain bike, skateboarding or skiing session, as fully immersive images can be obtained.

Photo and video resolution

Resolution is certainly key when you want to document your holidays in photos and videos. Video resolution is associated with a frame rate (fps) which allows for perfectly smooth action to be obtained, even when moving quickly. The higher the fps, the more likely you are to shoot smooth, clear and sharp images. The AgfaPhoto product range includes HD action cameras, in addition to models in True 4K for ultra-detailed image definition.

There’s an action camera for every holiday style

When we go on holiday, we all have our own ways of embracing this prized time of the year. Some take the opportunity to partake in their favourite sports, whilst others go on canoe trips, take long bike rides or enjoy long swimming sessions. As a result, there is an action camera suited to every holiday style. AgfaPhoto will help you choose the perfect model based on your intended activities.

For activity-filled holidays with family or friends

Do your holidays with family or friends alternate between relaxation and sport? If so, an action camera for amateur athletes will be ideal for you! If you don't plan on filming extreme sports or using your camera intensively, then there's no need to opt for cutting-edge models; an action camera for beginners will be perfect.

The AgfaPhoto Realimove AC5000 on-board camera will undoubtedly be your favourite pick. This action camera includes all the basics you’ll need to use this device on your holiday. The model’s 110° viewing angle covers an ample field of vision that you can also use at sea, thanks to the casing that is waterproof up to 30 metres.

What’s the main advantage of choosing this camera for your holidays with family or friends? The compact design and the 2" LCD screen! You can easily slip your action camera into your backpack to go hiking, rambling or mountain biking. This model also includes all the accessories you’ll need to film your activities. You can protect your camera during water activities, or even attach it to your bike or directly on your ski helmet, for example.

The Realimove AC5000 also boasts a Wi-Fi connection that will allow you to remotely control your camera (via the dedicated app on your smartphone) and also make it easier to transfer your videos and photos to another device. It's a simple way to quickly share your holiday exploits on social media!

The cost of this action camera is also bound to win you over: €39.99, an ideal price to get to grips with this new camera on your next holiday.

For a sports-packed holiday

When partaking in your favourite sports during a holiday and keeping track of your exploits, you need to be able to count on a camera that will hold its own! Please take care though as several levels of action camera are available: some are recommended namely for extreme sports enthusiasts, whilst others are aimed more at seasoned or high-level athletes.

We are therefore going to provide you with recommendations, depending on the type of sports you plan to do, whether on holiday or not.

The Realimove AC7000 action camera for seasoned athletes

The AC7000 action camera with a dual 2.7K screen, for example, is perfect for seasoned athletes wanting to film themselves in selfie mode, on land or underwater, whilst sharing their videos via Wi-Fi. This on-board camera model is definitely the model for all situations: the double 2"+1.3" screen and the 120° viewing angle provide great flexibility of use. This model comes with 10 accessories, including a case that is waterproof up to 30 metres, making it ideal for diving enthusiasts. Several different mounting accessories are provided so you can attach your camera wherever you desire (on a handlebar or helmet, etc.).

What is this model’s key function? The Wi-Fi connection to optimally control your settings. You can remotely control your camera from your smartphone and transfer your videos to the same in no time at all, letting your achievements be shared with others.

The Realimove AC9000 action camera: the perfect mid-range model for extreme athletes

This model is the ideal intermediary between our AC7000 and AC9500 cameras. With its True 4K video, this action camera will seamlessly film your sporting exploits, whilst the 170° viewing angle allows you to capture every scene for an ultra-immersive rendering, down to the smallest detail. For extreme athletes whose disciplines entail a lot of shaking, this model boasts an integrated stabiliser which allows the action camera to withstand shocks and vibrations: the rendering is more comfortable to watch and adds a sensational dimension to your exploits. Just like the previous model, this product also boasts a Wi-Fi connection so that the camera can be controlled remotely, and videos can be transferred and subsequently published on social media in no time at all.

If you tend to frequently record your exploits, then it may be handy to know that this camera can accommodate a Micro SD card up to 128 GB (not included). This action camera model comes with various accessories, including a case that is waterproof up to 30 metres, to have your surfing sessions covered.

The Realimove AC9500 action camera: the ultimate model for filming in 4K and all conditions

The distinctive feature of this model is without a doubt its ability to obtain fully immersive scenes, whether on land or underwater. The Realimove AC9500 is a sports camera equipped with an electronic stabiliser, which offers a resolution of 16MP for ultra-detailed and sharp shots. The camera is also waterproof up to 18 metres (without the housing), so it can be taken on your diving trips or various water activities. You will also have access to different features, such as slow motion, time lapse or even loop recording to make films more possible.

The Realimove AC9500 is also an ultra-complete pack that includes two batteries and a double charging station, so you’ll never get caught out when filming your exploits. All the mounting accessories are also provided so you can attach your camera to any mount type. A hard case is also available to store your pack, protect the camera and make it easier to transport.

Just like the other AgfaPhoto models, this action camera also boasts a Wi-Fi function. You can therefore connect it to your smartphone, control it from the dedicated app and transfer photos and videos in a matter of seconds. This action camera model can also store all your exploits, thanks to the option to add a Micro SD card up to 256 GB.

Whether you are planning a sports or leisure-filled holiday, you are sure to find the camera best suited to your needs in the AgfaPhoto product range. When choosing your model, take note of the cost of the action camera, its storage capacity, its battery life and its resolution: by paying attention to these details, you will definitely find the ideal on-board camera for all your adventures!